Bill Gerber, the first selectman of Fairfield, died Tuesday afternoon at Yale New Haven Hospital following complications from two brain surgeries, his family announced.

Gerber had been battling a large, aggressive malignant brain tumor and remained active in his role until the day before he was hospitalized, according to a statement released by his wife and children.

“We are heartbroken to share that our beloved father and husband Bill Gerber passed away at 4:11 p.m. today,” the family said. “Despite the physical issues he was experiencing, he worked long days and attended evening meetings up until the day before he went into the hospital.”

Gerber was elected Fairfield’s First Selectman in November 2023.

“The Town of Fairfield was incredibly lucky to have him as its leader. And our family was beyond blessed,” the family said.

Town officials expressed their condolences and asked the public to keep the Gerber family in their thoughts and prayers.

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Sen. Richard Blumenthal said he was "deeply saddened" to get the news. "Bill Gerber was a kind, devoted public servant whose tireless drive to deliver effective leadership, to a community he loved, reflects the kind of person he was - bright, caring and deeply invested in the betterment of Fairfield and Connecticut," Blumenthal said.

The family said a ceremony celebrating Gerber’s life will be held at a later date.